NordVPN is a VPN service designed to encrypt internet traffic, hide a user’s IP address and provide additional privacy and security features. Depending on the plan, users can also access Threat Protection, Dark Web Monitor, password management, cloud storage and other digital-security tools.
- Strong encryption and privacy protection
- Large global VPN server network
- NordLynx protocol for fast VPN connections
- Automatic Kill Switch and DNS leak protection
- Double VPN and Onion Over VPN options
- Split tunneling and obfuscated servers
- Threat Protection for malicious websites and files
- Supports up to 10 devices simultaneously
- Additional privacy and security features available
- Some advanced security features require higher-tier plans
- Users primarily looking for a basic VPN may not need the additional bundled services
- Device limit is currently 10 simultaneous connections
- Plan features and pricing can change
- Renewal pricing can differ substantially from introductory pricing
NordVPN is a virtual private network service that encrypts a user’s internet connection and routes traffic through VPN servers, helping protect online activity and hide the user’s IP address. It supports multiple VPN protocols, including NordLynx, OpenVPN and NordWhisper, allowing users to choose between different connection approaches depending on their needs.
NordVPN can help protect internet traffic from exposure on unsecured networks and provides features designed to reduce tracking, malicious-site risks and other online threats. Its security tools include Kill Switch, DNS leak protection, Threat Protection, Double VPN, Onion Over VPN and obfuscated servers, while additional plan features can include Dark Web Monitor, password management and cloud storage.
FAQs
Does NordVPN hide my IP address?
Yes. When connected to a NordVPN server, your internet traffic is routed through the VPN connection, which can replace your visible IP address with the IP address of the VPN server.
Does NordVPN keep logs of my online activity?
NordVPN states that it operates a no-logs policy and says its claims are independently verified. Users should still review the provider’s current privacy policy and independent-audit information when evaluating a VPN service.
What is NordLynx?
NordLynx is NordVPN’s implementation based on the WireGuard VPN protocol. It is designed to provide fast VPN connections while maintaining the security and privacy benefits of a VPN.
What happens if the NordVPN connection drops?
NordVPN’s Kill Switch is designed to block internet access when the VPN connection is lost, helping prevent traffic from continuing over an unprotected connection. The exact Kill Switch behavior can vary by operating system and app configuration.
Can NordVPN protect multiple devices?
Yes. Current NordVPN plans allow up to 10 devices to be secured simultaneously under one account. Supported platforms include Windows, macOS, iOS and Android, among others.
What is Double VPN?
Double VPN routes your internet traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an additional layer of VPN routing and encryption. It can be useful for users who want additional privacy, although the extra routing can affect connection speed.
Does NordVPN include protection against malware and malicious websites?
Threat Protection is available with NordVPN and is designed to block malicious websites and help scan downloaded files for malware. The exact Threat Protection features depend on the plan and product version.
Does NordVPN include a password manager or cloud storage?
Does NordVPN include a password manager or cloud storage?
Does NordVPN include a password manager or cloud storage?
Yes. Dark Web Monitor is included with current plans and can alert users if monitored information, such as an email address, appears in data leaks. Higher-tier plans provide broader monitoring capabilities.
Which NordVPN plan should I choose?
The appropriate plan depends on whether you primarily need VPN protection or want additional security and privacy tools. Basic focuses on the VPN, while higher-tier plans add features such as anti-malware protection, password management, cloud storage and broader identity monitoring. Compare the current features, device limits and renewal terms before choosing a plan.
NordVPN stands out for combining a traditional VPN with a broad collection of advanced privacy and security features. NordLynx is designed for fast VPN connections, while Double VPN routes traffic through two VPN servers, obfuscated servers are designed to make VPN traffic less recognizable, and Meshnet creates encrypted connections between devices. Higher-tier plans also extend beyond VPN protection with features such as anti-malware protection, Dark Web Monitor, password management and cloud storage.
ProtectionSeek ratings reflect our editorial assessment of features, coverage, usability and plan characteristics. Ratings are independently determined by ProtectionSeek and are not provided by or affiliated with the service provider.
